WASHINGTON— Following the sudden departure of Carrie Hunt as America’s Credit Unions chief advocacy officer, all eyes are on ACU as it works to fill one of its most critical leadership positions.
Hunt, who joined ACU in March 2024 after leading the Virginia Credit Union League, was seen as a rising figure in the trade’s national advocacy arena. Her exit has not only left a gap but also sparked speculation about who will step into the role.
Nussle’s Message: Stability Amid Change
In a statement provided to CUToday.info, ACU President and CEO Jim Nussle emphasized the association’s advocacy operations remain steady and deeply resourced despite the transition.
“Advocacy is job one at America’s Credit Unions, and working together with our league partners and industry allies to sustain our momentum is a priority for our entire team,” Nussle said. “…Even with this change, you can be confident that I am working hand in hand with this deeply engaged and fully committed team to relentlessly advance credit union priorities at every level of government.”
Nussle pointed to the association’s “deep bench” of lobbyists and professionals as a buffer against any loss of momentum on Capitol Hill.
Industry Chatter: Who’s Next?
Still, the trade group has not announced a succession plan, leaving the field wide open—and industry insiders guessing. The Washington Reporter noted that sources on the Hill and in financial services circles are floating three main scenarios:
- An internal promotion—most prominently Deputy Chief Advocacy Officer Trey Hawkins
- A hire from another trade group, such as Jason Stverak, chief advocacy officer at the Defense Credit Union Council
- A pick from within the administration, like Sarah Bang, chief of staff at NCUA
Another Name In The Mix
Some industry chatter also points to ACU Senior Vice President of Advocacy Greg Mesack as a potential fit to stabilize the role and bring continuity in strategy.
Hunt’s exit also came on the heels of speculation that she had been a contender for the ACU presidency itself—a position that will soon go to Scott Simpson, who heads of the California, Nevada, and Utah Leagues.